Crosby Cleared For Contact
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – In the midst of a six-game winning streak, it's hard to imagine how things could get better for the Pittsburgh Penguins.
However, after the team's practice Tuesday morning their captain made a big announcement.
According to KDKA-TV's Mike Zappone, Sidney Crosby told reporters he has been cleared for contact, but there is no timetable for his return.
"I was cleared to do contact," said Crosby, who resumed contact practice with his teammates Tuesday afternoon. "We'll see how that goes. There is no real timetable, but it's a good step. Hopefully, I can keep the momentum and get out there soon."
He said he will take it day by day, but assuming all goes well, the earliest he could return would be Sunday against the Boston Bruins.
"I've been through this before," Crosby said. "Contact is the big step. It's nice to be symptom free, but it's not as fulfilling until you get out there. I just want to make sure that I take the right steps here and get back out there soon."
Crosby said the motion issues subsided first and only headaches lingered. However, he has not had headaches for a few days now.
Crosby has been out of the lineup with concussion-like symptoms following a game against the Bruins on Dec. 5. On Jan. 31 he was diagnosed with a soft-tissue neck injury that, doctors said, could be contributing to his symptoms.
Since that diagnosis, Crosby received extra treatment, which he says has helped in his recovery.
"The neck stuff certainly helped," Crosby said. "I definitely felt like I saw improvement with the work on my neck and getting that loose. Was it everything? I don't know, but it certainly helped. It's something I'll continue to do and stay on."
He missed the first portion of the season while he continued to recover from a concussion he suffered in January of 2011.
Crosby returned to the lineup this season against the New York Islanders on Nov. 21. In eight games, Crosby has 12 points (two goals, 10 assists).
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